Kim Ki-hyun Demands Explanation on "Very Special Relationship" Between Park Ji-won and Cho Sung-eun

Kim Ki Hyun, floor leader of the People Power Party, spoke on the 12th at the National Assembly about procedural issues related to the Public Corruption Investigation Office's search and seizure of Assemblyman Kim Woong's office, as well as the meeting between Cho Sung Eun, the whistleblower of the "solicitation of prosecution" allegations and former vice chairman of the United Future Party (now People Power Party) election committee, and Park Ji Won, director of the National Intelligence Service. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy, reporter Geum Boryeong] Kim Ki-hyun, floor leader of the People Power Party, called on Park Ji-won, director of the National Intelligence Service, to clarify his relationship with Cho Sung-eun, the whistleblower in the 'report solicitation' allegation, stating that they appear to have a close relationship.

On the afternoon of September 12, Kim held an emergency press conference at the National Assembly and stated, "It appears that Director Park and Ms. Cho have a very special relationship."

He especially emphasized that Director Park should explain his relationship with Ms. Cho. Kim said, "The connection between Director Park and Ms. Cho has emerged as a key issue," and continued, "I cannot understand why Ms. Cho, the so-called whistleblower, met with Director Park after making her report. I demand clarification on how much the meal cost, who paid for it, who else, if anyone, was present at the meal besides Director Park and Ms. Cho, and whether the expenses were paid with public funds."

He went on to say, "If they met in an official capacity, it is questionable what issues there were to discuss between Ms. Cho and Director Park. Director Park must provide a clear explanation on this point," adding, "If he does not clarify, it can only be assumed that there is something suspicious he is trying to hide."

On this day, Kim also presented information about the past party affiliations and roles of Director Park and Ms. Cho, as well as news photos and Facebook posts. He said, "It is clear that Director Park and Ms. Cho are not just acquaintances, but have a very special relationship." He explained, "Looking at Facebook posts, there is a photo of a cat on Ms. Cho's lap, and Director Park commented, 'The cat must be happy.' He seems to know the cat's name as well. When Ms. Cho wrote, 'I was so happy when you suddenly called to check in,' Director Park replied, 'That's just who I am.'"

In addition, Kim strongly insisted that the Public Officials Corruption Investigation Unit (POCIU) should stop its illegal search and seizure of Representative Kim Woong's office. He said, "Procedurally, this is clearly illegal. Investigating a case without even specifying the charges, just to see if something comes up, disregards even the basics of investigation." He continued, "In particular, Representative Kim is merely a reference, not a suspect or an accused. It is an excessive investigation that cannot be justified for investigative authorities to suddenly attempt a search and seizure of an opposition lawmaker's office, which contains many materials related to legislative activities."

Kim also stated, "This case has a high possibility of developing into a major scandal reminiscent of political and election manipulation. The People Power Party will thoroughly investigate the truth of this case, and at this critical time before the presidential election, we will do everything possible to uncover where and by whom these operations targeting the opposition are being led, in order to defend the rule of law and democracy in the Republic of Korea."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.